Are bunions cramping your style? If you’re a seasoned runner, a fan of high heels or have bunions in your family history, you’re more likely to experience these unsightly toe deformities. In fact, by age 65, one in three people have hallux valgus (HV), a.k.a. bunions.Jeremy Ousey, a musculoskeletal podiatrist in the U.K., explains that bunions develop due to instability in the mid-foot joint where the toes attach. As a result, the big toe can drift away from the other bones, leading to the characteristic bunion bump. Over time, it can worsen, causing significant pain and discomfort, especially when walking or wearing shoes.But don’t despair! While surgery is the only permanent solution for fixing bunions, not everyone needs to go under the knife. Many people can manage their bunions with non-surgical treatments like bunion correctors. These devices help realign the toes, alleviate pain and even prevent the bunion from worsening. Dr. Craig Radnay, an orthopedic surgeon with the Florida Orthopedic Institute, explains, “Bunion correctors can be an effective treatment option, especially with a mild to moderate, flexible bunion deformity. A bunion that is flexible or ‘moveable’ can be straightened manually or held temporarily with a corrector.” Additionally, bunion correctors can support recovery post-surgery.If bunions are making your life miserable, it’s time to consult a podiatrist. These foot specialists can guide you through the best treatment options, including bunion correctors. We spoke with five podiatrists and a footwear design expert to bring you the best bunion correctors on the market.Table of contentsThe best bunion corrector overallKutainCost: $60 | Type: Silicone daytime corrector | Sizing: N/A | Adjustable: Yes | Arch support: No If you’re searching for an effective bunion corrector that won’t break the bank, the Kutain Adjustable Orthopedic Bunion Corrector is an excellent choice. One 5-star review noted, “I found it very easy to use, very comfortable and even very easy to walk with it at home. I really enjoy it, NO pain at all, It is such an amazing comfortable product to use. I would highly recommend it to everyone.” A 2021 systematic review of bunion correctors found that to be effective, a bunion corrector needs both a toe separator and a mechanism for keeping the foot aligned properly — both of which the Kutain has. Another key feature is the adjustable straps, including heel straps, that allow for a customized fit, accommodating different levels of swelling and providing consistent support throughout the day. Users love the orthopedic design, which not only alleviates pain but also helps to gradually realign the toe to its natural position. The corrector includes a soft, cushioned pad that protects the bunion from further irritation and pressure. However, some people found that the straps broke easily, so be gentle as you make adjustments. ProsFully adjustable strapsComfortableOne size fits allConsNo arch supportBulky design$60 at AmazonOther top bunion correctors we recommend for 2024BunalineCost: $138 | Type: Silicone daytime corrector | Sizing: N/A | Adjustable: Yes | Arch support: No We chose the Bunaline as our best adjustable pick for its comfort, flexibility and ability to adapt to a variety of foot shapes and sizes. “Bunaline is silicone, so it’s comfortable, fits all sizes and works for men and women,” Radnay says. Radnay points out that the silicone pad enhances the comfort of the bunion correction process. It’s not always pleasant to force your toe to move in a new direction, but this corrector makes it easier. With its fully adjustable knob, the corrector fits all foot sizes and can even be switched from one foot to the other. It allows for natural toe movement while ensuring the big toe aligns correctly, which is crucial for relieving bunion pain. The Bunaline also has many positive reviews. “I could hardly walk and my life has changed since I started using them! Now I can walk for hours pain free,” wrote one user. ProsAdjustableComfortableOne size fits all$138 at BunalineAmazonCost: $10 | Type: Bunion shield | Sizing: N/A | Adjustable: No | Arch support: No As a bunion shield or guard, the Promifun works to subtly separate the big toe from the rest of the toes while cushioning the bunion to help reduce friction and pain. Radnay says that Promifun bunion products are not as rigid as Bunaline’s, so they won’t be suitable for large corrections. The Promifun bunion guard serves as an affordable solution for new or mild bunions and can complement other correction methods. You can pair it with bunion socks, sleeves, or a bunion corrector for added relief. A 2019 study also notes that bunion shields are effective in reducing pain and discomfort from bunions. The main appeal of the bunion guard is that it can be worn anywhere and it can be reused and washed if necessary. “It’s low profile and fits easily in shoes,” Radnay adds. ProsAffordableReusableCan be used at any timeConsCushion onlyNot a corrector$10 at AmazonNatraCureCost: $10 | Type: Gel spreader | Sizing: N/A | Adjustable: No | Arch support: No This NatraCure Gel Bunion Guard wins our top pick for shoe compatibility thanks to its seamless integration with various types of footwear. This innovative bunion guard is designed to provide relief without limiting your choice of shoes, making it an ideal solution for those who need both comfort and versatility. Dr. Gregory Alvarez, a podiatrist at Ankle & Foot Centers of America in Fayetteville, Ga., says this NatraCure product is effective thanks to its combination of cushioning and gentle toe separation. “It’s well-designed to alleviate discomfort and fit easily into most routines,” he adds. This gelled toe spreader provides necessary toe separation for bunion pain relief. It also releases medical-grade mineral oil (USP), vitamin E and aloe vera for skin protection and comfort while you’re wearing it. ProsCan be worn all-dayWashable and reusableStretchyConsMaterial may rub between toesOne size fits most (not all)$10 at NatraCureDr. Scholl’sCost: $17 | Type: Gel splint | Sizing: N/A | Adjustable: Yes | Arch support: No Dr. Scholl’s Bunion Relief & Toe Corrector is a fantastic overnight option due to its design and adjustability, which ensures a comfortable fit as you sleep. This gel night splint is fully adjustable, allowing you to wrap the fastener around your toe and tighten it to your preferred level. One reviewer says, “These are comfortable and are now part of my routine. Fits well and stays in place.” Dr. Scholl’s claims that this bunion corrector has been clinically shown to reduce pain and bunion progression. While we couldn’t locate the specific study by Dr. Scholl’s, a 2021 study review highlighted that night splints for bunions are effective in keeping the toes in alignment while non-weight-bearing. The review found that participants experienced some pain relief when using night splints. Moreover, it emphasized that night splints are most effective alongside other remedies, such as exercises with a toe separator and dry needling, to help reduce the angles of hallux valgus and intermetatarsals. Regardless, wearing a night corrector for bunions is certainly worth a try, even if it doesn’t drastically improve your symptoms. This is because it’s an easy way to reduce pain and slow bunion growth … it happens while you sleep. Because nighttime bunion correctors are non-weight-bearing and don’t need to fit in a shoe, they can also be made of softer, less rigid materials that are more comfortable to use. But, as a general rule, avoid wearing them for more than eight hours. ProsVelcro adjustableComfortableCan be worn all nightConsNo rigidityBest for mild bunions$17 at Dr. Scholl’sAetrexCost: $80 | Type: Foam insoles | Sizing: 5-13 (women’s) | Adjustable: No | Arch support: Yes The standout feature of these insoles is their impressive arch support. Designed to cradle your feet and provide stability, the Aetrex insoles help distribute pressure evenly as you walk. Orthopedic footwear designer Liza Egbogah recommends these orthotics because they have a deep heel cup to control overpronation, arch support and cushioning under the metatarsals. “Bunions are aggravated when you overpronate (ankles rolling in when you walk), so by wearing supportive insoles that reduce overpronation, bunions will be less inflamed,” Egbogah explains. “The right insoles can also help prevent your bunions from getting worse. The insole should have ample arch support, metatarsal pads and cushioning.” ProsArch supportCup heelMemory foamAntimicrobialConsNot moldableMore expensive than other insoles$80 at AetrexOS1st Cost: $21 | Type: Bunion socks | Sizing: Small-medium or medium-large | Adjustable: No | Arch support: No Bunion socks that help align the big toe while providing some arch support and cushioning can offer pain relief and slow bunion formation, Egbogah says. “A key feature to look for is that the sock creates some space between the first and second toes,” she notes. She recommends these Sockwell bunion socks, as they provide compression to ease inflammation while cushioning the big toe and providing separation between the big toe and second toe, thanks to the split-toe design. ProsCompression providedAntimicrobialSplit-toe designConsAnkle length onlyGentle wash only$21 at AmazonEmily’sCost: $20 | Type: Splint sleeve | Sizing: N/A | Adjustable: Yes | Arch support: No Endorsed by Dr. Shital Sharma, a podiatrist at Pinewood Family Care LuxStep Concierge Podiatry, this bunion corrector combines the structure of a splint with the comfort of a sleeve. It fits snugly over your foot like a sock and includes an adjustable strap that can be tightened or loosened based on the size of your bunion. “I was skeptical at first, but this bunion corrector splint exceeded my expectations. It’s so soft and breathable; I hardly notice I’m wearing it!” said one shopper. “Plus, being washable and reusable is a huge bonus. Definitely worth the investment for anyone dealing with bunion discomfort” ProsComfortable designWashableCan be worn all dayConsNot just a sleeve aloneOne size only$20 at Emily’sDr. Frederick’s OriginalCost: $11 | Type: Toe spacers | Sizing: N/A | Adjustable: No | Arch support: No This kit from Dr. Frederick’s offers high-quality, medical-grade support for bunion relief. Alvarez recommends it “because it includes a variety of pads and spacers to accommodate different needs and footwear.” It’s a convenient “one-stop shop” for bunion pain, featuring four types of bunion pads, spacers and toe separators in multiple sizes and shapes. The kit includes a shield spacer, a larger bunion pad that loops around the big toe and is meant to be worn with shoes; a standard spacer, a lighter spacer for wearing without shoes on the second toe; a sports shield spacer designed to keep the toe in place during active periods; and a sport spacer, a lighter option that loops around the big and second toes and can be worn without shoes. Dr. Sidney Weiser, a podiatrist and CEO of Quality Podiatry Group, explains that toe spacers or sleeves fit over your big toe, splinting it into a straight alignment. He adds that choosing options with gel pads for extra cushioning around the bunion site can help decrease friction from shoe gear. Reviewers say the kit may also ease arthritic pain in the feet. “I’ve suffered from moderate to severe bunion pain for 3 years, coupled with the beginnings of arthritis. I tried out my bunion spacers and immediately felt a difference, so much so that I cried tears of joy,” wrote one user. “My posture shifted, pain in my hips decreased, and my foot pain level went from about a 6 to a 2!” ProsOffers multiple sizesIncludes 3 different productsGood for pain reliefConsNot adjustableNot a full corrector$13 at Dr. Frederick’s OriginalKuruCost: $160 | Type: Shoe | Sizing: 6-12 in women’s, 5-12 in men’s; wide options available | Adjustable: Yes | Arch support: Yes Radnay recommends choosing wide shoes with a spacious toe box if you have bunions. This extra room prevents discomfort from a bunion rubbing against the shoe and provides enough space to wear bunion correctors, which help improve toe alignment. Egbogah recommends Kuru Atom sneakers for bunion correction thanks to their roomy toe box, stable midsole, shock absorption and ability to accommodate orthotic insoles. Egbogah adds that if you want a non-sneaker, look for leather. “The leather can adapt to your foot and give you a custom fit,” she says. ProsExtra-wide toe box is more comfortableAdjustable laces for a better fitMemory foam cushioningConsHeel may be too high for some people with bunionsLimited color options$160 at KuruTypes of bunion correctorsRadnay explains that bunion correctors apply gentle pressure to maintain the toe’s alignment. “These are non-invasive devices that can help with discomfort and slow the progression of the bunion deformity,” he says.While the primary function of all bunion correctors is to apply pressure, they differ in the level of support and pressure they provide, their intended use (such as daytime or nighttime) and their design. In some cases you can also use different products together, like pairing a guard with a corrector for enhanced effectiveness, or using an orthotic shoe with a bunion sock for added protection and support.However, Radnay notes that the bunion deformities won’t just disappear — the only way to permanently correct a bunion is with surgery. That’s why he advises consulting a podiatrist at the first sign of a bunion to receive a treatment plan specific to your needs, which may include bunion correctors.Here are different types of bunion correctors you might consider:Bunion splints: Rigid or semi-rigid devices to wear at night as you sleepBunion sleeves and pads: Soft cushions worn in shoes to reduce friction and pressure as you go about your dayBunion-correcting toe spacers: A tool to separate the big toe from the second toe to provide pain relief while keeping your toes in alignmentBunion relief arch supports: Insoles to wear in your shoes to help prevent overpronation that can exacerbate bunion pain and formationBunion relief socks: Socks that provide padding and separation to reduce friction and pressureBunion relief shoes: Shoes with wider toe boxes to prevent pain and further discomfortFactors to consider when choosing a bunion correctorIt can be helpful to look for the following features when choosing a bunion corrector:Comfort: The bunion corrector should be comfortable to wear and shouldn’t rub or irritate your bunion.Durability: The product should be well made to withstand daily use.Easy to use: The corrector should be easy to put on, take off and clean.Fit: It should fit your foot shape and be adjustable if needed. Radnay recommends choosing a low-profile, semi-rigid bunion corrector because it can help correct the toe deformity while still being comfortable enough to wear.Flexibility: A good bunion corrector should fit comfortably in different types of footwear, providing the versatility needed for daily wear. Some degree of flexibility is helpful so it fits into your shoe.For bunions that are causing severe pain or interfering with daily life, talk to a podiatrist about your options — you may need to consider surgery. “Fortunately, we now have excellent, new minimally invasive surgeries that cause less pain, have quicker recovery, and yield great outcomes in terms of deformity correction, pain relief and resumption of activity,” says Radnay.How we chose the best bunion correctorsTo choose the best bunion correctors and footwear products for bunions, we interviewed five podiatrists and one footwear designer to determine the best brands and features and, in some cases, get product recommendations. We checked over 30 different products to compile expert-backed recommendations along with product picks that aligned with our research. We also considered factors like price, effectiveness and user reviews when evaluating each bunion corrector.FAQsDo bunion correctors really work?Bunion correctors are often effective at easing pain and discomfort during the initial stages of a bunion’s development and may even decelerate its progression. However, they do not provide a permanent cure — severe bunions often require surgery.How long does it take for a bunion corrector to work?You may notice immediate relief with a bunion corrector (especially if your bunion is in its early stages), or it could take several weeks to allow toe alignment to shift. You must use a corrector consistently to see results.Can I wear a bunion corrector all day?”The more regularly you wear a bunion corrector, the more effective it can be. Most bunion correctors are worn for at least two to three hours a day and sometimes overnight,” says Radnay. If you use a bunion corrector at night, switch to a different one during the day since night-wear correctors can be too bulky for daily wear.Are bunion correctors covered by insurance?Bunion correctors typically aren’t covered by insurance since they’re available over the counter. However, you might be able to use HSA or FSA funds for these expenses. For specialized bunion products, consult your doctor.When to see a doctorRadnay recommends consulting a doctor as soon as you notice a bunion forming. “Once you start noticing an increasing deformity or ‘bump’ along the inside part of your foot, consider seeking consultation,” he advises. Not only can early treatment help prevent the bunion from progressing rapidly, you may have more options for less-invasive treatments and surgeries down the line.If your bunion causes severe pain, worsens over time or interferes with daily activities, it’s important to see a doctor.Meet our expertsGregory Alvarez, DPM, FACFAS with Ankle & Foot Centers of America in Fayetteville, GeorgiaLiza Egbogah BSc, DC, DOMP, orthopedic footwear designerJeremy Ousey, a musculoskeletal podiatrist based in Swansea, U.K.Craig Radnay, MD, MPH, board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon with Florida Orthopedic Institute in partnership with Tampa General HospitalShital Sharma, DPM with Pinewood Family Care LuxStep Concierge Podiatry in New JerseySidney Weiser, DPM, CEO of Quality Podiatry Group
The best bunion correctors for 2024, according to podiatrist…
